second best

noun

1. the next to the best in performance, achievement, craftsmanship, etc.

second-best

adjective

1. next to the best

2. informal,  to be defeated in competition

noun

1. an inferior alternative

Other Word Forms

• second-best adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of second best¹

late Middle English word dating back to 1400–50

Idioms and Phrases

Also, second class. Next after the first in rank or quality, inferior to the best, as in We aren't satisfied with being second best in sales, or This hotel is obviously second class. The first term dates from the first half of the 1400s, the variant from about 1800. Also see come off, def. 2; second class.

Example Sentences

The film is Stone's fourth collaboration with Lanthimos following The Favourite, Kinds of Kindness and Poor Things - which won the 36-year-old her second best actress Oscar.

From BBC

McIlroy is the world's second best player and, in that regard, the rankings do not lie.

From BBC

Eubank, who has gained popularity through his appearances on free-to-air television, began to land single shots, but it was clear he was second best against the more accomplished fighter.

From BBC

Overloaded in midfield, outpaced in defence and second best in one-v-ones, England were given a taste of the level they need to reach if they are to retain their crown.

From BBC

I wanted to say, come to the show and have it be the second best night.

From Los Angeles Times